Do You Need More X-Rays?

Posted August 21, 2015.

X-rays are a very important part of dentistry. They help dentists identify problems before they become serious, keep track of changes in your smile, and plan out treatments. But did you know that X-rays are more important in some circumstances—and for some people— than others? Or that you may need X-rays more frequently than every six months? To help you understand why, we are happy to provide you with some of the reasons your dentist could recommend more frequent more frequent X-rays.

Children: Usually, children need X-rays more regularly than adults because their teeth and jaws are still developing. Dentists use this opportunity to look for signs of plaque and to ensure that teeth are coming in properly.

Dental Work: If you have had extensive dental work, X-rays may be necessary to look beneath your fillings for signs of decay or infection. Having these X-Rays is very important preventing issues before they become serious.

Dry Mouth: Xerostomia—also known as dry mouth—is a symptom, rather than a disease, that signifies diminished or absent saliva flow. This is problematic because saliva helps prevent cavities and tooth decay. If you have dry mouth, your dentist may recommend more frequent X-rays to search for signs of decay.

If you think you need more frequent X-rays, we recommend visiting a dentist. They will be able to give you personalized advice to match your specific needs. Please don’t hesitate to contact us today if you have any questions or if you are interested in scheduling an appointment with us.